Pets in rental properties

Renting a property when you have pets can sometimes be challenging due to landlords' concerns about potential damage and disturbances. However, there are several dos and don'ts to consider when renting a property with pets:

Do’s:

1. Communicate with the landlord/letting agent: Be upfront about your intention to have pets in the rental property. Some landlords may be open to negotiation, especially if you have well-behaved pets or are willing to pay a pet deposit.
2. Provide references: If you have rented with pets before, provide references from previous landlords to demonstrate that your pets have not caused any significant issues in the past.
3. Offer to pay a pet deposit: Offer to pay a pet deposit or an additional pet fee to cover any potential damages caused by your pets. This can provide reassurance to the landlord that they will be compensated if there are any issues.
4. Sign a pet agreement: Consider signing a pet agreement with the landlord that outlines the responsibilities of both parties regarding the pet, including any additional fees, cleaning expectations, and rules for the pet's behaviour.
5. Keep the property clean: Regularly clean up after your pets to minimize any potential damage or odours in the rental property. This includes vacuuming pet hair, cleaning up accidents promptly, and maintaining a clean litter box or outdoor area for pets.
6. Respect the property: Ensure that your pets do not cause any damage to the rental property, such as scratching doors or chewing on furniture. Use appropriate measures to prevent destructive behaviour, such as providing scratching posts for cats or chew toys for dogs.

Don’ts: 

1. Violate the terms of the lease: If the lease agreement explicitly states that pets are not allowed, do not bring pets into the property without the landlord's permission. Violating the terms of the lease could result in eviction or other legal consequences.
2. Hide the fact that you have pets: Trying to conceal the presence of pets from the landlord is not advisable and could lead to legal issues or eviction if discovered later. 
3. Allow excessive noise or disturbance: Ensure that your pets do not create excessive noise or disturbances that could disrupt neighbours or violate noise ordinances. This includes barking dogs or loud meowing cats, especially during late hours.
4. Fail to address any damages: If your pets do cause any damage to the rental property, do not ignore it or try to hide it from the landlord. Instead, take responsibility for repairing or compensating the landlord for any damages caused by your pets.
5. Forget to update the landlord: If you acquire a new pet after moving into the rental property, inform the landlord promptly and obtain permission before bringing the new pet into the property.

It’s simple, by following these dos and don'ts, you can navigate renting a property with pets more successfully and maintain a positive relationship with your landlord and/or agent – win, win!